New York, NY (October 12, 2010)- Approximately 350 people attended The Skin Cancer Foundation's annual Skin Sense Award Gala, held on October 12 at the Pierre Hotel in New York City. The event honored Gabriel Tanbourgi, President of BASF Care Chemicals and Al Robertson, General Manager and Chief Marketing Officer of Energizer Personal Care for their leadership roles in promoting skin health.

In addition to Tony Sirico, formerly of The Sopranos, an interesting array of notable guests from the fashion, music, food and reality TV industries showed their support for this important cause. Acclaimed food critic Gael Greene; musicians Sylvia Tosun and Matt White and fashion insiders Richie Rich and Nole Marin all attended.

Sam Champion, weather anchor of ABC's Good Morning America, hosted the night's festivities. Mr. Champion has battled skin cancer, and has done much to raise awareness about the disease.

"My blond hair, blue eyes and outdoor weather assignments put me at high risk for skin cancer," said Mr. Champion. "Now, when my work takes me into the elements, I protect myself with sunscreen and clothing. Skin cancer prevention has become a way of life for me."

The program included a special performance by piano iconoclast ELEW. A modern day pop artist and musical revolutionary, he is known for his thunderous new style of playing- an inspired melding of ragtime, rock and pop called Rockjazz.

For the first time, the Gala included an exclusive after party. After the dinner portion of the evening, ELEW pumped up the crowd with his blistering renditions of "Paint it Black" and "Sweet Home Alabama" before escorting attendees to The Pierre's Two E Bar/Lounge for a late night encore.

"The Skin Sense Award Gala is always a very special night for the Foundation and we deeply appreciate everyone's support in making the evening a success," said Perry Robins, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation."We know that people are well aware of the dangers of the sun. However our research tells us that most people still resist making sun protection a part of their lifestyle. Clearly, there is much work to be done, which is why the Gala is so important."

About The Skin Cancer Foundation

The Skin Cancer Foundation is the only global organization solely devoted to the prevention, detection and treatment of skin cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research. For more information, visit www.SkinCancer.org.